Genzyme R&D Layoffs Today

The other shoe has dropped at Genzyme, which last year was acquired by Sanofi, but had yet to experience the kind of major research restructuring that typically accompanies the integration of two pharma companies. Today, Genzyme scientists were told whether their job was being shed or moved. Here’s an excerpt from the official statement:

As part of the integration process between Sanofi and Genzyme, R&D activities were reviewed and assessed. On January 31, 2012, the results of the review of U.S. R&D Genzyme activities were announced, including synergies that unfortunately make some positions redundant. All US R&D Genzyme employees impacted by the integration received notice regarding whether their position would be relocated or eliminated.

The job cuts are separate from the latest round of R&D layoffs at Sanofi. As readers might recall, Sanofi announced last November that it was closing its Bridgewater R&D site, and move discovery and early development activities to Boston. A Sanofi spokesperson tells the Haystack that despite today’s cuts at Genzyme, the company is committed to its presence in Massachusetts, and to maintaining a stable level of jobs there. While R&D is falling under the axe, the company is hiring in manufacturing and multiple sclerosis, she says.

The company has not provided details on how many R&D scientists will be shed, but once more information comes to light, we’ll update readers.

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